The Saddlers travel to Exeter tomorrow, in a fixture that produced a dramatic 3-3 draw. Goals between the sides last season were high compared to the 0-0 so far this season. However with the form the sides are on, 0-0 would be a big surprise.
To get an inside track on Exeter, I spoke with David, who is in the know, about all things Exeter.
Things are looking bright for Exeter to once again reach the play-off’s, how do you rate your season so far?
Our season has been better than perhaps some expected. The young players who have been given the opportunity to develop this season have taken that chance and results have been steadily positive.
Can you make the play-off’s? Or even the automatic spaces?
The play offs are our spiritual home, I would anticipate that more than an automatic place. As good as we have been in attack this season, defensively I do not feel we have enough quality to finish in the top three. I wouldn’t say there is no chance, but unlikely.
Matt Jay and Ryan Bowman have been in fine form this season, how key have they been to the team?
Both have been very good. Jay is the link to our attacking play and his technical ability marries well with Bowman’s physical approach.
Exeter are leading the charts in terms of goals scored, what system has seen such a prolific goal-scoring record?
Pace has been the key. We were too dependent on Randell Williams last season, that has not been the case this year. Joel Randall has balanced midfield with his direct running and we have good attacking full backs. Josh Key has excelled at right back. His type of dynamism from full back has not been seen from Exeter City teams for a few years now, it has made a significant difference.
What are the sides weaknesses?
Defence. Apart from the central defenders, the rest of the side have attacking intentions, that can lead to a weakness when defending. Last season we were a 1-0 type of team, this season it’s been more a case of winning 3-2.
Exeter have a great track record of producing players through their academy. Which youngsters could go on to bigger and better things?
This season has been all about the next cycle of young players and it\’s been exciting. Josh Key and Joel Randall will be the names most clubs will be scouting, but Archie Collins is perhaps the next one to move onwards and upwards. Steadily improved in recent seasons and at 21 looks a fine talent.
Finally, what do you know about the Saddlers? What are your predictions for the game?
The transfer window seemed to take more away from the Walsall team than improve it. The Darrell Clarke situation is a strange one and perhaps those two things together have led to a slight lack of confidence? League Two is bizarre this year. There are so many games, so much travelling, it’s hard to predict what version of teams will turn up. On current form I would anticipate a home win, but it is hard to tell. Both central defenders, Randell Williams and Ryan Bowman may all be missing for us, which are big misses. We also seem to have trouble keeping 11 players on the pitch recently, if we can do that then we should have enough. Just!
